DUO Magazine's Special Edition

Special Edition

ISMAEL

MIRANDA

“El Niño Bonito de la Salsa”

AARON&

BING

Winds of Attraction

PUERTO

RICO “La Isla del Encanto”

FRANK NIEVES Giving Back With Flare

CONTENT ISSUE VI

Puerto Rican Hispanic Festivales Special Edition

COVER STORY:

16

Ismael Miranda Publisher’s Letter Editor’s Letter

6 6

VIP Frank Nieves: Giving Back With Flare

8

UNSUNG HERO Steve Nieves

9

EMERGING ARTISTS Aaron Bing Melina Almodóvar

28

12 13

REEL WORLD Hecho a Mano

20

DUO APPLAUDS American Cancer Society Relevo por la Vida

22

DUO DO-OVERS Martin’s Makeover Magic: His House Children’s Home 24

DESTINATIONS Puerto Rico The Island of Enchantment 28

12 20 2 DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine

Magazine

DUO

is also

ON THE WEB To enjoy past and present issues of DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine click onto

www.DUOmagazine.com Forward DUO to your friends They’ll ‘flip’ over our on-line publication!

For Information on our Special Boutique Editions Contact: info@DUOmagazine or 888-DUO-9899

DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine 3

DUO Magazine

Publisher Ellen Sue Burton Editor-in-Chief Giselle Sanabria Fashion Director Atiya Sewell Art Director Giselle Sanabria Photo Editor Phil Pozin Staff Writers Karen Holly Berliner Francesca Franco Rachel Galvin Cynthia Lechan-Goodman Steve Goodman Contributing Writers Martin Amado Cat Wagman Web Design Better Age Computers, Inc. Distribution Outside Pubs Copyright 2010. All Rights Reserved. This publication may not be reproduced or reprinted without the written permission of the publisher. All writers’ opinions are their own and may not reflect the opinion of the publisher.

The publisher reserves the right to reuse any ad or story as necessary. DUO Magazine is not liable for inaccuracies or misplacement of photos submitted.

4 DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine

DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine 5

from the

PUBLISHER

O

h, the sights and sounds and colors and music of the Puerto Rican Hispanic Festival! DUO Magazine is so very proud to be launching our very first personal boutique magazine in celebration of the kick-off of this eleven day spectacular. Having met Frank Nieves, President and founder of the Puerto Rican Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, almost three years ago when we launched DUO, Frank has proven himself to be one of the premiere South Florida philanthropists and we are honored to present you with a man who is dedicated to giving back, paying it forward and making a difference. Surrounding himself with a “long line” of talented artists such as Ismael Miranda, Melina Almadovar and Aaron Bing, not to mention the volunteers and sponsors who help to put this event on the map year after year, we are extremely excited to invited to be a part of the the record-breaking event “Most Salsa Dancers at One Single Event” being hosted by none other than Guinness Book of World Records. Thank you, Frank, for making being not only a friend to DUO but a mentor to the South Florida Hispanic community.

from the

A

Giselle Sanabria and Puerto Rican salsa singer, Melina Almodovar

6 DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine

Ellen Sue Burton

EDITOR

s a Native Puerto Rican I cannot be prouder to be in this DUO Special Edition featuring the people, the music, the sights and sounds of the little island that seems larger than life to all of who have the pleasure of experiencing it. We are not limited to our 100 x 35 parameters. Puerto Ricans are setting their mark around the world. Ricky Martin, JLo, Marc Anthony, Ismael Miranda, Melina Almodovar, Carlos Arroyo and our five Ms. Universe winners are just a few of the amazing individuals who are helping to put Puerto Rico on the map. And here in South Florida we have our shining star, Frank Nieves, a local legend whose lifelong dream is to make sure that others learn about our culture and experience their native land without having to leave their doorsteps.

The Puerto Rican Festivales Patronales, now in it’s tenth year brings the food, the music, the art and the traditions that are so unique to our beautiful island. We thank Frank and his staff for making us a part of bringing the enchantment of the island to the South Florida sun.

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DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine 7

VIP

Frank Nieves Giving Back

With

Flare

By Steve Goodman

W

hat happens to a New York native, raised in Puerto Rico, who becomes a percussionist at the age of 12? What does one do with the rest of his life when he’s already had the honor of playing with Salsa singers and bands such as Cheo Feliciano, Santos Colon, Ismael Miranda, Daniel Santos, Roberto Anglero and Claudio Ferrori? Having had the opportunity to learn the custom and culture of the Hispanics as he traveled the U.S. mainland and the Caribbean, Frank Nieves chose the obvious path, which was to spend the next ten years of his life sharing his entrepreneurial skills, his love of life and appreciation of music, and his devoted friendship with the Latin and Hispanic community.

There are all the kinds of people who do not take their success for granted and are committed to giving back to the communities where they live and work. That giving back takes many forms, from setting up foundations, to doing countless hours of community service, to raising funds for great causes – and sometimes, if you are Frank Nieves, it also means throwing the biggest and best “block party” South Florida has ever seen! “I created the first Fiestas 8 DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine

Patronales in 2001,” says Frank. “We are now celebrating our 10th anniversary.”

Currently, Frank is not only head of the Fiestas; he is President of the Puerto Rican Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Broward County. He is very comfortable “wearing both hats.” In fact, he says one really grew out of the other. Having worked as a Telecommunications Engineer since 1980, Frank acquired vast experience in management and participated in business expos throughout the Caribbean, Central and South America and was able to open markets for Enhance Communications Group in charge of the international markets of Colombia, Venezuela, Salvador and Panama, among others. This gave him the need to know the Latin communities, their culture and consumers’ habits in these countries.

“Because of my background in music, and strong ties to my Puerto Rican culture, I realized that when people come here from South America, Puerto Rico, wherever, they leave behind not only their homes, but things that are most closely related to their culture – the music, the traditions and so on.” Frank joined many chambers after starting his own business and could not find what he was looking for.

“I decided to create a chamber for Hispanics that focuses on culture, rather than just business or community politics.

So with my production background I started working with the Chamber to stage events. What I always brought to those events were dancers, music, and those aspects of Hispanic culture.”

And while Fiestas is a celebration of Hispanic heritage, its popularity and its growth from a four-day festival to the only 11-day Hispanic festival in the country proves that it has an appeal beyond the Hispanic community. Much like “everyone is Irish on St. Paddy’s Day” – everyone has a little Latin in them come Fiestas.

“The rest of the community has always loved Hispanic food, music, dance, etc. They travel to many Latin American countries, and, of course, Puerto Rico, and other Hispanic destinations across the Caribbean.

So giving them the opportunity that Fiestas does to experience that without leaving the country is very appealing.”

Throwing the country’s largest Hispanic festival is not the only way Frank gives back. “I like to aid as many people

as I can. My wife and I are both actively involved in helping the developmentally disabled community. I have a granddaughter with Down’s Syndrome – so we have always been involved with that.” Frank’s spare time, if indeed he finds any in his busy world, involves helping his wife, Hilda, run a group home for kids with developmental disabilities and he is gearing up to chair the next American Cancer Society Relay for Life.

“You know,” says Frank, “we Latins are a little bit different.

We like to get comfortable. We are very loyal in the sense of once we do business with a company, we never stop doing business with that company, and those relationships often are built just on a handshake.” Having attended many Chamber after-hours networking events during the week, Frank noticed that people were still tense from work and would walk around hurriedly – pass around business cards and say ‘Hi, this is me – this is you’ – but nobody really made any friends. “You never really got to know anybody, which to me is the basic way you do business with people.

We have to trust people. We have to get to know them.”

Fiestas is one chance to relax, loosen up your tie, have a good time – and still meet some good people you want to do business with.-DUO

UNSUNG HERO

Behind the Hero

Steve Nieves

N

obody knows what it is like to be the ultimate volunteer than Steve Nieves, older brother, mentor and confidante of Frank Nieves. When brother Jose went off to fight in the Vietnam War, Steve volunteered to serve just to ensure his brother returned to the States knowing that two sons were not allowed to serve simultaneously. His plan, although a truly selfless one, did not work and both brothers continued to serve. Steve, a member of the 4th Infantry, not only was a cook, serving many meals on the front line, but he was also an expert sharpshooter until an injury to his finger sent him home.

In 2008, Steve was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer having evolved from Agent Orange, and he would become one of the first veterans to receive cutting edge treatment.

For more than a year his rare cancer, Mantle Cell Lymphoma, eluded proper diagnosis until it had reached Stage 4. Being one of only 15,000 known cases in the U.S., Steve, with the support of family, friends and everyone who helped him at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital, is now in

remission. Spending his days assisting Frank with his philanthropic endeavors and enjoying his four children and seven grandchildren, his wife, Carmen, is proud to say that “My husband is the most generous man I’ve ever known.”

Steve is living proof as to why everyone needs to take responsibility for their own health. Having gone through his own father’s death from cancer his mission is to spread awareness and education.

“What I want people to know is don’t fear the testing.

Check yourself regularly, do all the tests. The earlier a cancer is found the faster treatment can begin,” says Steve.

“Be positive. Have faith and hope. Life is wonderful and you can learn how to live with it.”-DUO DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine 9

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10th Congratulations

on

Celebrating your

ANNIVERSARY Roberto Roldan www.prafha.org 772-216-0285

Frank Nieves www.prchamber.com 954-989-4586

Ana I Rivera www.prchamberpc.org 863-838-2084

Santos Arroyo www.prhchamberonline.com 954-806-1550

DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine 11

EMERGING ARTISTS

M

Winds of Attraction The Sultry Sounds

AARON BING

of

By Cynthia Lechan Goodman and pitches with sensitivity and/or sexuality. You can feel the amazing flow of his breath –the range of the softest to the intense--into the music because the music that reaches you is penetrating with its realness. It’s the truth in the feelings that we experience and respond to like magic, like magnetism. Particular past recorded favorites are “Keep It Moving”, and “Joyful”— pieces both sultry and spiritual.

usic is the true magic. Like magnetism it reaches into us and we can’t help or stop our inner reaches from pulling us into that music—that sound. Sometimes sound is purely nature—other times it is the human use of an instrument that makes nature vibrate with certain sound. One person with magic magnetism in his soul that he uses on his sax is Aaron Bing.

Because Bing’s music is so real, so truthful to his respect of nature, his honorable conduct and recognition of human relationships and the paths of people, his music touches everyone no matter what the musical taste—country, pop, R&B, rap, jazz, easy listening. He does not narrow down to any musical code or regimen, but writes and performs just music—of the people.

Aaron found his music in 9th grade right in school “my empire” “my journey” as he describes his school experience and the place that shaped his life in its most admirable direction. In 9th grade he was able to start out with instruments the school provided—the clarinet, the French horn, the trumpet. And then he heard some saxophone music and knew it was his calling. He was so moved he wrote his first song in 10th grade, “South Wind” he called it. His teacher was floored. “It sounds professional!”

A recent trip to Puerto Rico brought Spanish culture and Spanish people to his music. His experiences of the rain forest, Old San Juan, the sunsets, the wonderful people and feel of the Spanish community are transmitted in the music he wrote for his new CD “Rebirth”, soon to be released in conjunction with a benefit.

Bing describes his musical journey: “I was coming up with parents who didn’t have a lot and at school there was competition to be the most popular, for status, to hang or run with the in crowd. My music kept me grounded and rooted-- music is bigger than any clique you can run with—I knew I could deal…with stuff. I practice two hours a day religiously. It’s not a chore—I love it.”

Is Aaron Bing influenced? Aaron credits his grandmother and her church association that taught him do right, no smoking no drinking, and the beautiful array of popular jazz artists he listened to --Kenny G, Grover Washington, Boney James. But by 11th grade he had already discovered his own sound.

Unlike them—even the masterful Kenny G, Aaron’s music resonates and trills (even thrills) with glissandos 12 DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine

Benefits are not new to Bing. He was moved particularly by the loving musical response he saw to the Haitian earthquake which brought to mind gospel music of his grandmother’s teaching and upbringing. “Amazing Grace” was the piece he thought of. As serendipity does happen, he was put together with the West Palm Beach Haitian American Nurses, who worked with him to record and produce his own Amazing Grace. Aaron informs that purchases of this CD online provides contributions to HANA. “Anything positive in life should continue…and anything I can do to push it along, to help, I know that’s what I must do.” With his music, Aaron wishes to be able to give musical instruments to schools, or donations to be able to keep the most necessary music and arts programs going. “If I didn’t have music, I don’t know where I’d be.”

And to be sure, Bing’s music will take us all to the most meaningful places. Check him out at: www.aaronbing. com. -DUO

Melina Almodovar A

good salsa is always a great choice to spice up your life. With her great moves and amazing voice this Puerto Rican beauty is guaranteed to make you shake your bootie to her salsa rhythm. Melina Almodovar is pushing forward and leaving her mark wherever she goes. And all those rumors that you’ve heard that the salsa style is a dying artform? Definitely not! With Melina around, it will live forever!

D: How did you start your singing career?

M:I started singing in clubs and festivals in Memphis, Tennesssee at 16. I sang rock, jazz, blues, R&B, anything I could. Then I was approached by a group of very talented Memphis musicians to start a salsa band. I played with them for four years. That is where I fell in love with tropical music.

D: Who or what was your inspiration?

M: My grandmother, Elia, gave me my first collection of salsa songs by Ruben Baldes, the record “Siembra” with Willie Colon, when I was very young, like 13, when my mother and I had to move from Puerto Rico to Memphis. This record meant so much to me even at such an early age. It reminded me of my home and kept me happy in the adjustment years of my living in Memphis. Ruben Blades and Celia Cruz are always inspiring me. My mother, Ilsa, and my grandmother, Elia, they are very strong women who always support me and show me the way. Let me just say I have a lot to live up to.

D: Why did you choose to sing salsa?

M: Really, I think it chose me. I knew I wanted to sing and perform from a very early age. I just didn’t know what. I think salsa followed me from Puerto Rico to Memphis to Miami.

It’s in my blood. I love it! I never formally learned how to dance salsa or sing. I just had a natural ability for it and I just ran with it to see where it could take me. And here I am having a great time. Gozando!

D: What is your take on salsa music nowadays?

M: There are some great artists out there who are keeping salsa alive. Unfortunately, I think it’s not a great time for salsa at the moment. I feel it is in a transition period. But the artists that are out there will find a way. Salsa is very important for the fabric of Latin culture. It will never die. It lives in every

Latino’s heart, plus people all over the world keep it alive that never grew up with it, with their salsa classes and salsa clubs.

They just love it. Who knew a salsa band could be successful in Memphis, Tennessee?

D: What inspires you to write?

M: The things that inspire me to write change all the time.

Singing live for people inspires me a lot. Those first few moments of a salsa song when you see all the dancers crowding the floor, I love that moment. So I try to write music right now that has that affect on people. At other times in my life it hasn’t been about that. There are times when I write about being away from Puerto Rico. Whatever it is, I am living at the moment. It could be many things. But I have friends that help me write as well; and if I like a song from someone else, I will sing it too. If the shoe is fabulous and it fits, wear it out dancing!! That’s what my Mami always says.

D: Are you working with other artists? If so, who?

M: Right now I am looking forward to singing with the great Andy Montañez on November 16th at the Fiestas Patronales de Puerto Rico. I am doing my show and then singing with him. I am so excited! I can hardly wait. He is such an amazing legend of salsa, it is truly a privilege. And I am collaborating with some amazing songwriters and arrangers for my next record coming out next year; so it’s a busy time, but very exciting and fun. I hope I can keep up!

D: Do you work with any charitable foundations?

M: I work with My First Horizon. It’s a non-profit organization that helps young people with developmental disabilities live as normal a life as possible. They are amazing people that need opportunities just like all of us. And they need fun and entertainment just like everyone else. I hope that I can do more than I have done for them in the future.- DUO DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine 13

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DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine 15

Ismael

coverSTORY

MIRANDA

El Niño Bonito de la Salsa

By Francesca Franco

I

t’s late at night, and a scrawny kid carries a conga as big as himself down a snowy street. He slips, falls on the conga, then slowly gets up, grabs his conga, and starts the trudge up the six flights of stairs to his apartment. So begins the story of Ismael Miranda, legendary salsa singer and pioneer in creating the genre of salsa music, aka Latin Jazz.

Okay, so technically he’d been singing for a long time before this particular day with the conga, even performing in a couple of bands, but it wasn’t until the conga that things really started happening for him. He began singing when he was 8. By 11, he was taking lessons, and by 14 he was playing and singing with various groups. That’s when a teacher told him about 16 DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine

a local group that was looking for a conga player, and young Ismael jumped at the opportunity, “I quickly told him I was the best conga player,” and he auditioned. It worked. He was asked to rehearse with the group, and, a short time later, to join Benny Ortiz’s orchestra. Thus enters the giant, unwieldy, aqua blue conga, “I wanted to buy a fiberglass conga … my first professional instrument, and, with my mother’s help, I was able to,” he says. “I loved it, even though it weighed more than me!” It was also more than just a simple musical instrument. It represented opportunity. “My passion for singing has been with me all my life, but in those times, if you were able to play an instrument and sing, it was much easier to find work.”

Another thing that made it easier was the ability to write and compose his own music, although that too was a bit

DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine 17

“

Through the blessings

that God has given me, I feel as though I have

the opportunity to help the many people that

”

He’s put in my path. …

Helping others is one way of giving thanks.

says. “That’s the biggest blessing I’ve been able to have as an artist: Knowing that you’re loved by thousands of people, and, at the same time, being able to share that love with them.”

And the most difficult part? “The biggest challenge has been to keep myself relevant for 45 years,” he says. “It’s not easy, but I’ve always believed that when God gives you blessings and talent, He does so for life. … For me, the difficulties have been important and necessary. It’s what’s kept me with the desire to move forward, to keep fighting for what I love, and keep working for the fans, and the people who have put me where I am today. … My inspiration, and motivation, has always been the ability to bring joy to all the places I go, and that made it easier to bear the heavy loads that, very often, my work entails.” of a climb, “At first, it was very difficult to write songs because I spoke more English than Spanish,” he says.

“But I believe God had that gift, that blessing, for me.”

Since then, it’s been 45 years of singing, bands, orchestras, performances, movies (he was in El Cantante with Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony), music, and, of course, congas. His most treasured gift, after all these years, has been the time he gets to share with his fans.

“The most rewarding part of my career is performing in concert and being able to share with the public,” he 18 DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine

Looking ahead, it’s more than just music that he hopes to share with the world. Joy and love are top on the list. From new recordings (he’s aiming for three records this year, one of which will be an album of Salsa music in English), to completing construction on a center of all things Ismael Miranda related, he’d like to pay forward the love and gifts he’s been given in life.

“Through the blessings that God has given me, I feel as though I have the opportunity to help the many people that He’s put in my path. … Helping others is one way of giving thanks.” -DUO

DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine 19

REEL

WORLD

By Rachel Galvin

F

or the subjects of the documentary “Hecho a Mano,” creating art from their hands is their passion. These four Cuban immigrants tell their tale not only of coming to America and making a new life here, but also the daily discipline of perfecting their craft.

This film, created by a team including director/producer Brett O’Bourke and writer/ producer Gaspar González is a unique glimpse into the Cuban experience.

They steered away from focusing on stereotypes of Cuba while letting their “characters’” heritage become secondary to being an artist … on how each contributes to the world through their own two hands. The stories of the unique individuals are told in Spanish with English subtitles.

“Even if it weren’t out of necessity, even if all four were fluent, we felt this story still needed to be told in Spanish. So many documentaries about Cubans are told in English. We didn’t want this to be translated.

We wanted them to be able to tell their stories in their own way,” says González.

“Hecho a Mano” obvious they are talking about the two of them ...” says O’Bourke. “They added color to the film.”

The vivid hues these two create on each mosaic are the result of a painstaking process. Each color must be applied not once, but four times on each. But they don’t seem to mind the laborious task. “Discipline is what makes you an artist,” they say.

Francisco “Paquito” Hechavarría is a pianist. He has played with the likes of Sinatra and at clubs in Miami like the popular Boom Boom room. “I remember people lining up out the door. I lived that.” He talks about bringing personal style into each artistic endeavor. “Not every piano player, even if he is 100% Cuban, plays the tumbao the same way. You create your own style,” he explains.

The Artists

The lives of these four were masterfully interwoven into one overall theme about creativity and embracing life from a hands-on approach. O’Bourke and González, both Cuban, say the film is a way of honoring their parents, their ancestors and their own struggles. They hope to create “Hecho a Mano 2” soon featuring Cuban female artists.

For Tony López, sculpting is his life. “I’m not crazy, but I’m obsessed,” he says about his work. He adds, “Everybody would say to me, ‘Stop sculpting. You’re going to die from hunger.’ I’d reply, ‘If I die from hunger, I’ll die happy.’”

“Hecho a Mano” was featured in October 16 as part of the Fort Lauderdale Film Festival, and is slated to be shown in November on WLRN. For more information on this production team, visit www. commonmachine.com.-DUO

Brothers Nelson and Ronald Currás are mosaic artists and identical twins. “They finish each other’s sentences and often speak saying ‘I’ when it is 20 DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine

Besides being a journalist, Rachel Galvin has been involved in the film industry for over 10 years as an actor, producer and more. Check out her blog/ networking portal at www.independentstreak.ning. com or www.rachelgalvin.net.

DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine 21

DUO Applauds

RELEVO POR LA VIDA Let’s Step Up To Help Raise Cancer Awareness In The Hispanic Community

W

hen the American Cancer Society in Broward County reached out to its community of volunteers for their upcoming special ‘Relay for Life’ event, they found Frank Nieves, whose family had been touched by various cancers throughout the years.

“I gladly accepted when I was asked to be the Event Chairman for the Relevo por la Vida which will be held in June 2011,” says Frank Nieves, President and Founder of the Puerto Rican Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Broward County and the President of Puerto Rican Fiestas Patronales. “It’s through the targeted outreach programs designed to help Hispanic families, such as Relevo por la Vida, that we can give them a starting point to change their view of and deal with cancer.”

Nieves, along with Relevo por la Vida’s Vice Chair, Carlos Sanchez, are two influential Hispanic leaders who have made a commitment to get the word out and support the American Cancer Society, in the ongoing fight against cancer.

“We are currently organizing Relevo por la Vida to help prevent the health disparities that exist in the Hispanic community, especially in the area of early detention,” added Nieves. “Not only will Relevo por la Vida raise funds, it will be a county-wide event geared toward informing the Hispanic community of the many free and different patient 22 DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine

By Cat Wagman

programs available through the American Cancer Society in Broward County.”

Donations to the Relay for Life events help support vital programs and services in Broward County including Road to Recovery (providing cancer patients with rides to treatment), Look Good Feel Better (providing women with wigs and makeup while they undergo treatment) and R.O.C.K. Camp (sending children who have battled or are currently battling cancer to camp). “I am proud to say that for every dollar that we raise 73 cents goes back to the community to help support our patient services,” boasts Community Representative, Ivonne Morales. “With the countywide Hispanic event Relevo Por La Vida, we will be able to raise awareness in the Hispanic Community and improve the quality of life for Hispanics in your local community by promoting early detection and prevention to reduce the instances of cancer and increase the survival rates”.

“The American Cancer Society is a valuable resource that is available to anyone. Still, it takes enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers with all types of experience to create a successful event, such as Relevo por la Vida,” added Frank Nieves. “We need anyone who is a cancer survivor and those whose lives have been affected by cancer in some way to consider how they can get involved with this event.

It’s a great way to give back to themselves, their families, and their community. For more information, please contact Ivonne Morales at the American Cancer Society at 954564-0880, extension 7533. -DUO

DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine 23

DUO Do-Overs

HIS

HOUSE Children’s Home

By Martin Amado

www.martinamado.com

I

first learned about His House Children’s Home through a mutual friend of mine who volunteers at the organization. She told me all about their mission to provide residential care for neglected, abused, and drug-exposed children, and how they were renovating the cottages on campus to be able to assist more kids.

His House depends on community partners for these cottage makeovers to create a loving, stable, and nurturing environment that helps restore the physical and emotional well being of the children that live there as they go through their adoption/foster program. This had DUO Magazine 24 DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine

Do-Overs written all over it, so I had to go see for myself.

I was immediately touched by the hard work and dedication of Jean Caceres- Gonzalez, who founded His House Children’s Home 20 years ago. She and her staff have made a difference in the lives of so many children that are going through a storm of domestic violence, abuse or neglect. Upon touring the campus, I was impressed by how beautiful the renovated cottages looked and how they truly provide a safe and peaceful place the children can call home during their stay at His House. The tour ended right where it began at the lobby of the Hector Building 2, where

After

Before

parents, children and visitors are greeted for the first time.

I had honestly come expecting to transform a cottage, but the more I looked around, it was obvious … the lobby was the space that needed a makeover!

The first thing that struck me was the dated and tired appearance. It didn’t reflect all the joy and happiness His House stood for. The color scheme was dreary and the furniture was worn. It felt completely disconnected from the bright colors that were on all their brochures and the spirit embodied in the kids’ portraits that adorned the hallways. From the old linoleum flooring, to the drab color on the walls, to the warped drop-down ceiling, the entire space needed a major overhaul. I was daunted by the task, because before I could even concentrate on the décor, I had to tackle some remodeling issues such as flooring and paint that would prolong the makeover process quite a bit since we were dealing with quite a large space. But I was up to the challenge because I wanted to give them the same uplifting experience they do for so many families and children that seek help at His House. After all, they bring so much hope to others, it was about time we gave some back to their lobby after 20 years.

We began by replacing the linoleum with brand new wallto-wall carpeting donated by Peter Lazarus of ABC Carpet Mill Outlet. Honestly, the makeover would not have the impact it had without his kind heart and generosity. The original plan was to concentrate on the main area in the center, but because of his support we were able to decorate the side corridors, too. I chose granite gray to withstand the high traffic pattern and a commercial grade for its durability.

The boring wall colors were replaced with warm beige and were accented with a mint green and plum combination to reflect the colors found on their business card and

brochures. The new paint colors immediately revived the look of the lobby thanks to Lowe’s Home Improvement Store in Pompano Beach who provided all the paint and supplies. With these two major phases done, the flooring and paint, I was now able to concentrate on the furnishings to give the lobby more style.

I replaced the red sofas with brand new seating from City Furniture in chocolate leather and fabric. Not only does the leather wear well with time, but the dark color is very forgiving. Before the makeover, His House had a small wicker trunk as a coffee table and most of the wood surfaces on the end tables were scratched. I avoided this from happening in the new furniture by choosing a table set with a glass top. It visually keeps the space open and looks more contemporary too. Thanks to City Furniture’s support, I was also able to create a second seating area in the side hallways by incorporating two armless accent chairs with a round table in between. I love how this turned out! It took a space once used only as a walk-through and gave it a whole new purpose. The finishing touches were added with toss pillows, lamps and additional artwork that I brought from other areas into the lobby space. For example, the two large canvases behind the reception desk were taken from the cafeteria. Now they make a statement in the lobby and the children’s smiles immediately greet those who enter.

It took about a month from beginning to end, working with volunteers on the weekends and evenings, but when the lobby makeover was finally completed, it was a dramatic transformation. It reflects all the joy that His House has been able to bring into the lives of children and their families in crisis all these years. -DUO DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine 25

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We are all ATHLETES

W

e are all athletes; some are just better and in better shape than others. Frankly, regardless of our personal self-examination and in the interest of the good health, it is important that we care for ourselves as an athlete.

If you were a Professional or Olympic athlete, you would probably be treated by the gold standard in soft tissue injuries, a chiropractic approach called Active Release Technique (ART).

Generally, injuries of professionals, weekend warriors, or office employees occur from a variety of soft tissue overuse syndromes.

Carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, hip pointer, golfer’s elbow, shin splints, tendonitis, or plantar fascitis are a number of the common names for this type of injury to be found in various parts of the body.

These soft tissue injuries cause severe pain, are chronic, or can become chronic. They are usually difficult to treat, medically, since they are caused by structural dysfunction. Adhesions or entrapments within muscle layers or joint misalignments and dysfunction tend to be the culprit.

ART, when performed by a qualified practitioner, releases these adhesions causing the structure to move and function the way it ought to task. Once function is restored, the pain resolves. There

are no side effects, the problem is addressed, rather than masked, and the symptoms subside as function returns.

Athletes prefer these approaches because their bodies are their business; they must perform at 100% for as long as possible. So as “fellow athletes,” we are the same: An accountant with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) can be out of a job just as a football player with a knee injury. The medical approach for CTS is frequently a surgical approach called “retinacular release,” which opens the “tunnel,” but reduces the integrity of the wrist. The better and safer approach is with ART. A study of ART with CTS has been documented by Dr. P.M. Leahy, DC CCSP, who is the originator of ART. Two hundred twenty three (223) CTS patients referred by medical doctors and treated by Dr. Leahy between 1994 and 1995 had 215 successful outcomes with an average of 6 treatments.

That is a 96.4% success rate.

It is difficult to accept that such amazing factual statistics have not swept the nation. But, then again, most people think of Chiropractors as low back pain specialists; and since medical doctors very rarely refer outside their profession, people have been left uninformed – “kept in the dark.” Since 1995 many more advances in this technique have occurred which gifts us with yet a higher rate of success! All the more reason to look to ART, acupuncture and Applied Kinesiology…before considering “going under the knife.”

¡Se Habla Español!

Dr. Bernard S. Burton DC PA, is a Chiropractic Physician who is one of the first chiropractors in South Florida to become trained in ART. He is also a Clinical Nutritionist, Acupuncturist, and Craniopath. As a proficient doctor in Applied Kinesiology he uses this for the chronic, complicated patients with digestive and non-structural complaints.

954.742.0332 Fax. 954.742.7344 2045 N. University Drive Sunrise, FL 33322

DUO www.betterbacks.com “Do Unto Others” Magazine 27

RICO

PUERTO

DESTINATIONS

Old San Juan

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El Morro Culebra

The

Island of Enchantment

By Karen Holly Berliner

P

uerto Rico, endearingly referred to as “The Island of Enchantment”, has been called as such for many good reasons.

One in particular is its national mascot, simply a local species of small tree frog, the enchantment part likely being the sound it produces “KO-KEE”, often heard like a sweet familiar song throughout the night. If you visit Puerto Rico, you will likely hear the Coqui sooner or later, and while you’re at it, why not check out the points of interest in Puerto Rico, including the National landmarks and unique places to see and things to do. Perhaps you’ll find in these offerings, further reason to coin Puerto Rico as the “Island of Enchantment” too.

Old San Juan Founded in 1521 by Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon and originally planned as a military stronghold, this 465 year old seven square block neighborhood has evolved into a charming residential and commercial district. In essence, Old San Juan is the city’s historical heart as it is comprised of a tiny maze of blue cobblestone streets, colonial architecture and historic fortresses and plazas.

Plaza de San José is a favorite meeting place and is skirted by a number of historic buildings. Abutting it is the Plaza del Quinto Centenario, itself the cornerstone of Puerto Rico’s commemoration of the 500th anniversary of Columbus’s discovery of the New World. Another is the DUO “Do Unto Others” Magazine 29

El Morro This six level fortress formally called The Fort de San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) is a National Historic Site and the largest fortification in the Caribbean. It sits atop a high promontory overlooking the entrance to San Juan Bay. From its perch above it provided a useful defense against attacks by both the English and the Dutch. Begun in 1540 and completed in 1589, it was named in honor of King Phillip II. Rising 140 feet above the sea, its 18-footthick wall proved a formidable defense. The fort is a maze of tunnels, dungeons, barracks, outposts and ramps and is studded with small, circular sentry boxes (garita) that have become a national symbol. The views of San Juan Bay from El Morro are spectacular. The area was designated a National Historic Site in February, 1949 with 74 total acres. In 1992, the fortress was restored to its historical form in honor of the 500th anniversary of the discovery of Puerto Rico by Christopher Columbus. Visit El Morro and stroll on the lawns where soldiers once marched.

Culebra

Plaza de Armas, Old San Juan’s main square on San José Street, featuring four statues representing the four seasons.

Plaza de Colón, originally called St. James Square, was renamed in 1893 to honor Christopher Columbus on the 400th anniversary of his discovery of Puerto Rico. Built in 1971, Plazuela de la Rogativa features a modern sculpture depicting a procession of religious women commemorating an event that took place on the site in 1797. The Plaza de Hostos features artisan displays and traditional piragüeros who sell shaved ice topped with tropical fruit syrup. The downtown historic district features the tree-lined Plaza de las Delicias, comprised of fountains, gardens, and the 1835 Cathedral de Nostra Señora de Guadalupe and the red-andblack striped Ponce Firehouse, itself constructed in 1882 and now a museum of the history of local fire-fighting.

Casa Alcaldía, or City Hall, is the oldest colonial building in the city. La Guancha Paseo Tablado or the boardwalk is a lively beachfront development popular with the locals. All in all, the city includes over 400 carefully restored 16thand 17th-century Spanish colonial buildings. The Old San Juan attracts many tourists, who also enjoy the gambling casinos, fine beaches, and tropical climate.

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Located about nineteen miles east of Puerto Rico and eight miles north of Vieques, Culebra is the smallest of the inhabited Spanish Virgin Islands at seven miles long and three miles wide. An arid island having no rivers or streams, it gets water from Puerto Rico via Vieques and boasts crystal clear waters with sixty feet of visibility. In 1909 the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge was established taking in over 1,400 acres of land and is well known both as a nesting area for numerous seabirds, as well as the endangered leatherback turtle and Culebra giant anole.

The snorkeling and scuba diving around this Island is outstanding. Hard and soft corals, tropical fish and other sea life abound in the shallows and magnificent reefs encircle the island.

El Yunque Named after the benevolent Indian spirit Yuquiyu and comprised of over 240 different species of trees, El Yunque located in the Luquillo Mountains, is the only rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. El Toro is its highest peak at 3,532 feet, having only odd dwarf vegetation clinging to its sides. More than 100 billion gallons of precipitation fall each year, creating the jungle like ambience of lush foliage, sparkling leaves, shiny wet rocks, and shadowy paths.

Spectacular waterfalls rush alongside its well maintained trails. Within the park, you have the choice of about 13 hiking trails. While walking, keep an eye out for the coquí frog (the national symbol of Puerto Rico), the rare Puerto Rican parrot, beautiful orchids and waterfalls.

Arecibo Radio Telescope

Camuy River Cave Park

In the northwest mountains of the island, nestled among the karst-country hills, is the Arecibo Ionospheric Observatory, the largest of its kind and one of the most important research facilities worldwide. The huge dish (more than a dozen football fields could fit inside) sits in a sinkhole and is forever aimed at the sky, tuned to detect the slightest sounds emitted by the farthest stars. It is the place where planets outside our solar system were discovered and is the home base for NASA’s SETI, the Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence. In the Visitors’ Center you will see how the colossal structure is used to study radio emissions from distant galaxies, quasars, pulsars and many other cosmic sources. The exhibits are interactive and contain extensive information on astronomy and atmospheric science.

In the northeastern region of Puerto Rico over 200 caves have been discovered. Climb or even swim through this massive underground river system, it being one of the biggest underground rivers in the world. Visitors ride a trolley that descends into a sinkhole lined with dense tropical vegetation while a guide describes the sights.

After a walk across ramps and bridges and through the dramatically illuminated, 170-foot high, Cueva Clara, another tram shuttles you to a platform overlooking the 400 foot deep Tres Pueblos Sinkhole. Another attraction is the Spiral Sinkhole and Cave. You can walk the 205 steps down into the sinkhole, but the cave itself is off limits to all but experienced spelunkers. The sinkhole is believed to have once been an enormous cavern. Cathedral cave is home to an impressive collection of petro glyphs etched into the walls by the ancient Taínos (native Indians). The 268 acre grounds include a cafeteria, picnic area, gift shop, walking trails, exhibition hall, and theater.

Just a quick plane ride away, Puerto Rico offers the very best in tourist attractions, culinary delight, music, entertainment...and romance. End your day with a walk around one of the “magical” bays or lagoons where you can enjoy the darkness of the moonless nights and surround yourself with the sparkle of the darting lights of a million fireflies. We promise you will see why Puerto Rico lives up to its reputation. It is truly enchanted.-DUO

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